What Are the Strengths & Weaknesses of Verizon?

Verizon Wireless boasts the title of being America's "largest and most reliable voice and 3G network" on their website and numerous television commercials. While their coverage is excellent, Verizon is not without its weaknesses.

Weakness: Cost

The monthly calling plans for Verizon Wireless cost more, on average, than competing cellular providers. Users with smart phones also require additional data plans that can be as expensive as home Internet service.

Strength: High Speed Broadband

Mobile broadband plans range from $15 per month for BlackBerry access and increase to $59.99 per month for a five-gigabyte monthly data allowance. Broadband usage may be accessed through hand-held smart phones, netbooks or laptops.

Weakness: Poor Customer Service

Calling Verizon to discuss plans or problems with service can be a nuisance. Often a customer will find that multiple calls will result in different answers by different customer service agents.

Strength: Coverage Area

As the country's largest network, Verizon Wireless services over 80 million customers annually. The company has invested over $50 million in creating and expanding its coverage.

Weakness: Phones

Verizon is slow implementing new technology, and lacks more sophisticated phones such as AT&T's iPhone.